Autumn colours: 5 tricks for photographing foliage like a professional

How to photograph autumn foliage: an easy guide

Before we dive into this photography guide, we would like to start with a reassuring note. Keep your wallet under control: there is no need for ultra-expensive equipment, because you can take beautiful photos even by using the professional features of an iPhone or any other smartphone.

And now, let us get to it: take note and head out to try it for yourself.

1. Choose the right time of day. In photography, light is always essential if you want spectacular images. One tip? Try shooting in the early morning or at sunset, when the light is soft and golden. This simple trick will give your shots a warm autumn atmosphere. And if you want to add a touch of creativity, play with backlighting effects — just be careful not to overdo it.
2. Find the right location. To capture original foliage photos, spend a little time looking for the best places. Parks, woods, and rural areas are perfect for photographing the beauty of autumn colours, and they may also be the perfect excuse for a wonderful weekend trip. Make the most of Google or ask local people to discover the best foliage-viewing spots nearby.
3. Choose the ideal angle. Always keep the rules of photographic composition in mind. Very often, this is the real secret behind a successful image: play with your camera angle and experiment with different perspectives. For example, shoot from below to capture the details of the leaves, or climb up to a panoramic viewpoint for a wider view of the spectacular autumn scenery.
4. Time for a gadget: use a polarising filter. Yes, really — if you have a polarising filter, you will notice the difference immediately. Use it to reduce reflections and enhance colours. It is one accessory that can truly make a difference when photographing autumn woods.
5. Include decorative elements. The same good rules that apply to any photo shoot work here too. To make your photos even more interesting, add extra elements that tell the story of autumn. For example, look for reflections in water and fallen leaves to create unique details. Or place subjects in the foreground to give your images greater depth.

The same view, endless shades

Get ready for a whole season of photography. Autumn lasts for three months, each offering an unmatched variety of colours, and the best part is that the foliage will keep changing shades all the time.

So do not limit yourself to just one day of shooting. Return to the same place regularly and capture the full Pantone scale of your favourite scene. Remember, patience is the key to taking the perfect foliage photos. Wait for the wind to gently move the leaves: that kind of motion adds life to your shots.

As you have probably understood by now, photographing foliage is a wonderful way to capture the beauty of autumn. But you know even better that the most breathtaking photos are the ones that portray you and the memories you care about most in the world. Charge your smartphone, head to the best autumn locations, and start shooting away. Then, when you get home, print your best shots in a personalised sticker album.